Gasly Backs Alpine's 'Drastic' Long-Term F1 Strategy

Pierre Gasly has expressed his full support for Alpine's 'drastic' strategic shift, which involves dedicating significant resources to the 2026 Formula 1 regulations. Despite the team's current struggles, Gasly emphasizes his role in maintaining motivation within the squad, believing that short-term pain will lead to long-term gains.

Why it matters:

Alpine's aggressive focus on the 2026 regulations is a high-stakes gamble. With current performance at its lowest point in the team's history, this strategy aims to capitalize on the new technical rules to leapfrog competitors. For Gasly, it's a calculated risk he's fully behind, potentially offering a path to consistent competitiveness that the team currently lacks.

The details:

• Current Performance Woes: Alpine is enduring its worst period, with Gasly's 15th place in Mexico being their best result in the last five races. They have scored fewer points than any other team in this period.
• Strategic Shift to 2026: Alpine has effectively ceased major upgrades on its current car (A525) since the Spanish Grand Prix in June. This decision stems from a tactical choice to redirect resources towards developing their 2026 power unit and chassis, aligning with the significant rule changes expected.
• Development Freeze: Gasly noted that competitors like Haas are still introducing upgrades, highlighting Alpine's complete halt in current car development, a direct consequence of their 2026-centric approach.
• Gasly's Perspective: While acknowledging the current season is "extremely hard" and "not competitive at all," Gasly remains optimistic. He believes that the short-term sacrifice of performance will be "all worth it" if it leads to better results in 2026 and beyond.
• Morale and Leadership: Despite the difficulties, Gasly is actively working to boost team morale. He sees himself as "the main factor in motivation" for the 1,500 people across the track and factory, especially given his recent contract extension until the 2028 season, solidifying his long-term commitment to the project.

The big picture:

This 'drastic' strategy underscores the immense pressure F1 teams face to remain competitive, particularly with the budget cap and aerodynamic testing restrictions. Alpine's approach is a testament to the belief that a complete overhaul for new regulations can be more effective than incremental improvements under existing rules. It's a long game, sacrificing immediate satisfaction for potential future glory.

What's next:

Alpine will continue through the remaining four race weekends of the current season with minimal expectations for competitive results. Their sights are firmly set on the "different project" of the 2026 regulations. If their aggressive development pays off, the team hopes to emerge as a front-runner, justifying Gasly's unwavering faith and the tough decisions made this year.